Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog
Many consider Washington D.C. “America’s Front Yard”, as the nation’s capital is home to many iconic memorials and museums. Every year, millions of people visit Washington D.C. to commemorate legacies, make their voices heard, and learn about our nation’s history. The vast amount of visitors at monuments and museums often leads to heavy vehicle and foot traffic. Although these institutions take steps to prevent injuries, the measures do not always address the extent of hazards and dangers that these places pose to guests, visitors, and employees.
Generally, property owners owe their visitors, guests, and employees a duty to keep their premises safe from dangers. However, the duty varies depending on the status of the business, the classification of the guest, and circumstances surrounding the injuries. The challenges only heighten when the injury occurs at a government building or property. Some common places where a Washington D.C. injury may occur include:
- Supreme Court
- Library of Congress
- National Monument
- U.S. Capitol
- National Museum of the American Indian
- Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden
- National Museum of African Art
- National Air & Space Museum
Can you file a personal injury claim against the federal government?
Yes, you can file a personal injury claim against the federal government. However, filing any claim against a government requires injury victims to follow a complex set of statutes and regulations. Under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), those who suffer injuries on federal property or because of federal employees may have a viable personal injury claim. These lawsuits often stem from injuries such as :
- Slip-and-falls on wet floors;
- Vehicle accidents on poorly maintained roads; and
- Defective handrails or stairs at monuments or museums.
Although the FTCA permits claims against governmental entities, filing a claim against the government differs from filing a lawsuit against a private individual or business. The statute requires claimants to adhere to strict filing and notice deadlines. Some of the requirements include submitting evidence relating to the allegations and monetary losses. Depending on the nature of the case, evidence may include medical records, itemized bills related to any damages, photographic evidence, and police reports. It is essential that injury victims take note of the short filing deadline times; some filing periods may be as little as 30 days from the injury. An attorney can assist Washington D.C. injury victims in compiling, preparing, and presenting the necessary documentation to begin their claims.
Have You Suffered Injuries at a Public Museum or Park in Washington D.C?
If you or someone you know has been hurt at a government property or because of a federal employee’s or government entity’s negligence, contact Lebowitz & Mzhen. The Washington D.C. injury lawyers at our firm have extensive experience successfully representing accident victims in their claims for damages. Our attorneys have an in-depth understanding of e complex statutes and regulations that these cases entail. We handle cases involving Washington, D.C. motor vehicles accidents, slip-and-falls, defective products, medical malpractice, and wrongful death. Our firm has secured compensation for clients for their medical expenses, ongoing rehabilitation, lost wages and benefits,s and pain and suffering. Contact our Washington D.C. accident attorneys at 800-654-1949, to schedule a free initial consultation with a lawyer on our team.